General
Shettima Promises Better Environment For Private Sector
By Adedapo Adesanya
The Vice President, Mr Kashim Shettima, has said the private sector forms an integral half of the crucial foundation that holds the Nigerian government, noting that President Bola Tinubu is committed to creating an environment that fosters entrepreneurship and innovation.
This, according to him, explains why the president’s vision for Nigeria is grounded in eight priority areas, including poverty eradication, economic growth, job creation, and equitable access to capital.
The Vice President spoke on Thursday while commissioning some projects, including the Ijele 93.1 FM Radio Station, Phase Two of the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation (SEOF) Touch-a-Life Housing Project, and the AEMSL Meter Factory, in Anambra State.
“This gathering is a reminder that the private sector forms the other half of the government’s crucial foundation. Whatever innovation we design, whatever ideas we explore, whatever interests we pursue, we cannot achieve our objectives if those for whom they are targeted are not carried along or in tune with our agenda,” he said in a statement.
“I am utterly proud to be here today, honoured and excited to witness the commissioning of these landmark projects. I am convinced that each of us understands the urgency of our collective actions”.
Mr Shettima commended Anambra State for its private sector-driven development, even as he pledged the federal government’s support in addressing the state’s ecological challenges.
Noting that Anambra State has emerged as a critical pillar in Nigeria’s economic future, VP Shettima also praised Governor Charles Soludo for his understanding of the importance of a thriving private sector.
He added that Mr Soludo has demonstrated a “vast understanding of our economic dynamics, not just refined in academic chambers but forged in the crucible of real-world challenges.”
Mr Shettima also commended the Chairman of Chrome Group and Founder of Sir Emeka Offor Foundation (SEOF), Dr Emeka Offor, for his contributions to the development of Anambra State.
Acknowledging his “innovation, determination, and audacious vision,” the VP said Dr Offor’s investments in Anambra State have helped to create jobs, improve infrastructure, and provide essential services to the people of the state.
“Dr Emeka Offor is a shining example of what can be achieved when the private sector and the government work together. He is a true patriot who is committed to making Nigeria a better place,” he noted.
Shedding more light on the crucial role the private sector plays in nation-building, the Vice President said the hope the Tinubu administration has promised to renew can only be realised in an environment that makes it easier to translate the ideas of pace-setting individuals like Dr. Emeka Offor into action.
Mr Shettima continued: “The profound partnership between the federal government and each state remains an indispensable cornerstone.
“I assure you that commitment knows no bounds when fostering an environment ripe for entrepreneurial growth and innovation. For it is in the nurturing embrace of this collaborative effort that the delicate balance between public and private sectors resonates, defining the trajectory of successful nations.”
The Vice President also had an aerial view of some gully erosion sites in the state and was briefed on the state government’s efforts to address the problem which has caused widespread damage to infrastructure and farmlands in Anambra State.
Mr Shettima pledged the federal government’s support to the state government’s efforts to address the problem of erosion. He said that the federal government will provide financial and technical assistance to the state to implement solutions to this problem.
The VP restated the federal government’s continued support for Anambra State’s economic development, saying the government will work with the state to address challenges such as gully erosion and improve road infrastructure.
“Anambra State is crucial to the economy of this country, and we are going to ensure interventions in this state, from economic support to infrastructure development, are geared towards sustaining its place as an industrial and economic powerhouse.
“We are aware of the daunting challenge of gully erosion with which the state grapples, a consequence of its loose ferallitic soil. We are aware of the communities that this menacing force has encroached upon. We are aware of the lives and livelihoods it has devastated and threatened.
“We are also going to make our interventions in boosting our road infrastructure projects stand as tangible testaments to our commitment to connect the South-East with other sub-regions of our beloved country.
“These initiatives aim not only to bridge geographical distances but also to knit together the diversity of our nation, fostering prosperity the people deserve.”
Quit holding your breath, this is for real! It’s not a clickbait. Verve, Naija’s Agba and Odogwu card, understands the challenges of not having the right card to seamlessly transact across borders, all from the comfort of your home. That’s why it focuses on breaking barriers and redefining convenience for its loyal customers.
The latest in its series of groundbreaking achievements is the acceptance of Verve cards on AliExpress, one of the world’s largest online retail platforms, unlocking new possibilities for cardholders. Abeg comot for road, Verve don enter AliExpress way!
This isn’t just a win for Verve; it’s a win for millions of its cardholders who can now explore a vast array of products on AliExpress while enjoying the security and reliability they’ve come to trust in Verve. This partnership marks another giant leap in Verve’s mission to establish itself as a global payment powerhouse.
Over the years, Verve has forged strong alliances with renowned global brands such as Google, YouTube, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Facebook, Uber, Facebook, Spotify, among others, enabling Verve cardholders to make seamless payments for subscriptions in Naira.
This partnership with AliExpress further demonstrates Verve’s commitment to empowering its customers with access to seamless digital payments and world-class services to meet their evolving needs. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your tech gadgets, refresh your wardrobe, or find unique items for your home, AliExpress offers diverse possibilities, and Verve has made it easier than ever to shop and pay!
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to shop on AliExpress using your Verve card:
- Sign in to your AliExpress account.
- Select your desired items and click ‘Buy Now.’
- Add a new card and input your Verve card details.
- Save and confirm your details (You can also opt to save the card for future payments).
The Naija’s Agba and Odogwu card is a perfect example of the saying, ‘the light that shines farthest shines brightest at its base!’ While Verve is making waves and securing global wins, it’s also spreading joy right here at home!
Through the ongoing Verve GoodLife Promo 5.0, Verve is offering incredible rewards and benefits to its cardholders. Verve cardholders are enjoying up to 10 per cent cashback or discount for every transaction made at participating outlets, including Google, NNPC Retail, Addide, The Place Restaurants, Sweet Sensation, Chowdeck, BuyPower, and Market Square.
With Verve, the world is truly at your fingertips. From exploring global markets like AliExpress to enjoying rewards and discounts with local favourites, every swipe of your Verve card opens the door to endless possibilities. So why settle for less when you can have it all? Why stand on the sideline awwwing and shouting “God abeg, barb me this style” when you can be part of the action?
Take advantage of these incredible opportunities today. Experience the freedom to shop globally at your convenience, and unlock endless possibilities with Verve. The future is here, and with Verve, you’re already a part of it!
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
About 6,000 jobs have been created, with $379 million collectively raised by startups owned by entrepreneurs who have passed through the Black Founders Fund (BBF) of a tech giant, Google.
Google created the BBF initiative to empower startup owners of African origin. This programme has helped to drive innovation, job creation and business expansions because of the grants received from the sponsor of the scheme.
On Tuesday, past participants of the initiative were at iHub in Nairobi, Kenya, for the Black Founders Fund Alumni Summit, where the organisers unveiled the BFF Impact Report to highlight the significant progress and success of Black-led startups across Africa.
This annual event brought together 45-50 alumni from across the continent including Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Uganda to celebrate their achievements and discuss the future of Africa’s digital economy.
The BFF Impact Report offers a comprehensive look at the remarkable impact that targeted support for Black entrepreneurs has had on the African tech ecosystem.
The report revealed that BFF-supported startups have collectively raised $379 million, created more than 6,000 jobs, and experienced 61% faster growth than their peers, underscoring the importance of strategic investment in fostering sustainable innovation.
Through non-dilutive funding, mentorship, and networking, the Black Founders Fund has empowered entrepreneurs to overcome barriers, scale their businesses, and contribute to Africa’s digital transformation. The BFF Impact Report demonstrates the pivotal role of the program in strengthening the continent’s startup ecosystem, enabling businesses to compete globally and attract significant investment.
“The Black Founders Fund is not just about financial support—it’s about creating an ecosystem of innovation, job creation, and opportunity.
“The BFF Impact Report reflects the incredible progress Black entrepreneurs have made, and how the right resources can empower them to lead Africa’s digital future. The impact we are seeing today will set the stage for an even more vibrant African tech landscape tomorrow,” the Country Director for West Africa at Google for Startups, Olumide Balogun, remarked.
“This report is a celebration of the incredible work being done by Black founders across Africa. The BFF Impact Report proves that, when we invest in these entrepreneurs, we’re not only helping individual startups, but we’re driving systemic change within the broader African tech ecosystem,” the Head of Startup Ecosystem for Africa at Google, Mr Folarin Aiyegbusi, also stated.
In addition, the Black Founders Fund Manager Europe at Google for Startups, Mariama Boumanjal, said, “The BFF Impact Report proves that with the right support, Black founders can not only overcome these challenges—they can lead the way in innovation, job creation, and economic development.”
Business Post reports that through non-dilutive funding, mentorship, and an expansive network, the BFF has empowered over 220 startups, enabling them to scale faster and break down these barriers.
By Adedapo Adesanya
After years of laying fallow, the Port Harcourt Refinery began producing and distribute petroleum products Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) or petrol, Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) or diesel and Household Kerosene (HHK) or Kerosene.
This development has raised expectations regarding Nigeria’s other three refineries not yet operational. These include the second refinery in Port Harcourt as well as the Warri and Kaduna Refinery.
The reactivation of these facilities, according to energy analysts, will help push out more supply of petroleum products, which may help cut down high prices that Nigerians pay while also making the country self-sufficient.
The newly operational refinery was built in 1965 and Port Harcourt II was added in 1989, increasing capacity by 150,000 barrels per day, making the total capacity of the Port Harcourt complex 210,000 barrels per day.
The Warri Refinery was built in in 1978 and is supposed to have an upgraded capacity up to 125,000 barrels per day and the Kaduna Refinery, which was commissioned in 1980, was designed with a capacity of 110,000 barrels per day.
Speaking during a brief ceremony to mark the commencement of products loading at the refinery on Tuesday in Port Harcourt, the Group CEO, Mr Mele Kyari described the commencement of the loadout activities as a monumental achievement for Nigeria which signifies a new era of energy independence and economic growth for the country.
The GCEO further thanked Nigerians for their patience and for the legitimate expectations on the Company to deliver on the other refineries.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday extended his heartfelt congratulations to the NNPC on the successful revitalization of the Port Harcourt refinery and charged the NNPC Limited to expedite the scheduled reactivation of both the second Port Harcourt refinery and the Warri and Kaduna refineries.
He said these efforts will significantly enhance domestic production capacity alongside the contributions of privately-owned refineries and make our country a major energy hub, with the gas sector also enjoying unprecedented attention by the administration.
The President underscores his administration’s determination to repair the nation’s refineries, aiming to eradicate the disheartening perception of Nigeria as a major crude oil producer that lacks the ability to refine its own resources for domestic consumption.
-
Feature/OPED5 years agoDavos was Different this year
-
Travel/Tourism8 years ago
Lagos Seals Western Lodge Hotel In Ikorodu
-
Showbiz2 years agoEstranged Lover Releases Videos of Empress Njamah Bathing
-
Banking6 years agoSort Codes of GTBank Branches in Nigeria
-
Economy1 year agoSubsidy Removal: CNG at N130 Per Litre Cheaper Than Petrol—IPMAN
-
Banking2 years agoFirst Bank Announces Planned Downtime
-
Sports2 years agoHighest Paid Nigerian Footballer – How Much Do Nigerian Footballers Earn
-
Technology4 years agoHow To Link Your MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile Lines to NIN